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fter a 14-year absence, the Fremantle to Bali Yacht Race returned to the isle this week after 23 yachts completed their 1,440-nautical mile journeys from the Western Australian port city.

The yachts departed from Fremantle on April 23 and reached their finish line at Benoa harbor between May 2 and May 7.

The first yacht to arrive was the Limit, captained by its owner, Alan Brierty, which reached port at 5:19 p.m. on May 2.

The Limit completed the race in six days, five hours, 19 minutes and 31 seconds, breaking the record set by event patron and fellow skipper Rolly Tasker on Siska, who completed the journey in six days, 15 hours and 39 minutes.

“To break the record is obviously a challenge, but thanks to the crew, we could push the boat to the limit,” Brierty said on Tuesday during the celebration and awards ceremony at Aerowisata Sanur Beach Hotel.

The race highlights the important role of sports in connecting the people of Australia and Indonesia, said Culture and Tourism Ministry director general for tourism marketing Sapta Nirwandar. “This year’s event also marks the 30th anniversary since the inaugural event in 1981 and demonstrates the long-standing links between Indonesia and Australia,” he said.

“After a break of 14 years, this is a good start. Not only does it enhance government-to-government relationships, but also people-to-people ties, as well as promoting marine tourism, and tourism as a whole.”

The event has had a good impact on Indonesia’s tourism, with the visit of hundreds of yacht racers, including the owners and crews, as well as the organizing committee and their families.

Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Greg Moriarty earlier said in a statement, “Seeing the return of the Visit Indonesia Fremantle to Bali yacht race is a very exciting development, and I commend the Indonesian Ministry of Culture and Tourism for supporting the event.”

“As neighbors and friends, Indonesia and Australia cooperate closely on a wide range of issues. This cooperation often involves very serious international affairs and we sometimes have to choose our language carefully.

“But in the sporting field, we are lucky to share what is probably a universal language. Sport has a unique ability to break through language and culture barriers. That’s why we see it as an excellent way to build bridges and develop stronger people-to-people links with our Indonesian neighbors,” he said.